RIYADH: The Ministry of Interior recorded 21,022 violations, including 15,038 related to residency, 3,484 to border security, and 2,500 to labor laws between Feb.26 — March 4.
Border authorities apprehended 1,466 individuals attempting to cross into the Kingdom illegally from different nationalities, in addition to arresting 33 people for attempting to leave the Kingdom illegally.
Fifteen people involved in transporting, sheltering and employing violators were also arrested.
A total of 21,178 expatriates, including 19,665 men and 1,513 women, are currently undergoing procedures to enforce regulations.
Meanwhile, 13,854 individuals were detained for violating the regulations and were instructed to contact their countries’ embassies or consulates to obtain proper travel documents. In addition, 2,187 were advised to make travel arrangements, and 8,511 were repatriated.
The Ministry of Interior warned that anyone who facilitates the illegal entry of individuals into the Kingdom, transports them within its territory, or provides them with shelter, assistance or other service may face penalties of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to SR1 million.
Vehicles used for transport and properties used for shelter may also be confiscated.
The ministry emphasized that such acts constitute major crimes that warrant arrest and urged the public to report any violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, or 999 and 996 in other parts of the Kingdom.
